FARMERS of all ages and industries can now apply to see if they can become the 2014 NSW Farmer of the Year.
Now in its 11th year, the award aims to recognise and celebrate agricultural excellence across all categories of farming.
The winner will be awarded $10,000 while other finalists will receive $2000.
In a joint statement, NSW Farmers president Fiona Simson and Primary Industries Minister Katrina Hodgkinson said the annual awards identified outstanding farmers, by focusing on a combination of entrants’ agricultural management skills, use of innovation, profitability, environmental sustainability and community involvement.
“Our farmers have shown resilience and adaptability in recent years as they have faced drought, floods and a vast range of other environment and economic challenges,” Ms Hodgkinson said.
“The judges are looking for farmers that have put the best strategies in place to manage their businesses profitably and sustainably – and each year that competition is strong.”
Ms Simson said the award finalists play an important part in promoting the sector and educating urban audiences about farmers’ contributions on many levels.
“As land managers, the environmental and innovation credentials of farmers are sometimes overlooked. We are looking for farmers that can share their management skills and experience with their peers, and also act as ambassadors for our farming sector,” she said.
The joint winners of the 2013 NSW Farmer of the Year title were Matthew and Cherie Coddington, a Merino breeding couple from Dubbo, and Godfrey Dol, a greenhouse manager growing tomatoes at Guyra.
Application forms are available from the NSW DPI and
NSW Farmers websites.
Entries close Friday, September 19.